Obituary: Robert Luc Leray

Robert Luc Leray, 82, of Prescott, Ariz., born on Nov. 10, 1928, died on July 22, 2011 at Rolling Hills Manor.

Robert was born in Nantes, France. He was relocated as a child to Saigon, French Indochina where he spent his childhood. It was on a beach in Vietnam that he met the love of his life, Josette, when they were both 15-years-old. They were married in Paris after the war in 1950. They began their life together, while Robert attended the prominent and prestigious French university HEC. Their first two children, Annick and Michel were born in Paris.

In 1959, the family relocated to Los Angeles, Calif. where Robert worked as a wine salesman. This is where their youngest daughter, Nicole, was born. They lived in the suburb of Culver City for more than 40 years before retiring to Prescott, Ariz. Robert and Josette were married for 60 years and had a love for each other that touched and inspired everyone around them. Josette preceded Robert in death by 10 months. He was utterly devoted to her and taught us the meaning of true love and commitment.

He is survived by his three children, Annick Winkler, Michel Leray and Nicole Davis; his son-in-law Jim Ryan; five grandchildren Christopher, Laura, Eric, Sean and Scott; three step-grandchildren Mandy, Kasie and DJ. His granddaughter Laura lived with him for the last year of his life and kept him highly entertained. He was constantly surrounded by family and friends and had a close bond with his family.

The family would like to acknowledge his sisters-in-law and brother-in-law Gabrielle Young, Michelle Green, Pierrette McLaws, Danielle Callahan, Maria Lauze and Gerard Jugant for always keeping Robert in their thoughts, prayers and general love and kindness.

The family would also like to give special thanks to the wonderful staff at Rolling Hills Manor and to Darlene Valencia of Hospice Family Care, who took care of our beloved Robert and Josette.

A celebration of his life will be on Saturday, Sept. 17, 2011 at his daughter Nicole's home.

Robert, who we all know as our Papa, was a truly impressive man. He was fun to be around and always took care of everyone around him. The kindness, integrity, devotion and passion that he showed throughout his life, passed on to those who were close to him. He was an inspiration and will always be loved and remembered.

Information provided by survivors.